At Vermont Woods Studios, we offer solid wood dining tables that combine elegance, durability, and sustainability. One of the most practical features we offer is the self-storing leaf: a seamless solution for everyday dining and effortless entertaining.
Crafted by expert Vermont artisans using sustainably harvested American hardwoods, our extension tables are built to last a lifetime— and built with your lifestyle in mind. In this post, we’ll highlight five popular extension tables that feature self-storing butterfly leaves, showing how beauty and function come together in each piece.
The Problem with Traditional Dining Tables
Traditional dining tables often take up more room than a compact dining space allows. If you don’t have a dedicated dining room or your space doubles as a kitchen or living area, a full-size table may feel overwhelming.
That’s where self-storing butterfly leaf tables come in. Rather than settling for a small table that can’t handle hosting duties, you get the best of both worlds—compact when you need it, and spacious when you don’t.
Why Choose a Butterfly Leaf Table?
Unlike older dining tables that required storing separate leaves in the attic or basement, today’s self-storing extension tables feature built-in leaves that tuck neatly under the tabletop when not in use. This makes expanding your table for holidays, dinner parties, or unexpected guests a breeze.
Here’s why homeowners love them:
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Customizable space – Add seating in seconds, then fold the leaf away when it’s just your household at the table.
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Seamless function – Built-in mechanisms make operation smooth and simple—many can be opened with one hand.
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Sleek and stylish – Modern designs feature clean lines, elegant wood tones, and timeless craftsmanship.
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Efficient storage – No more trips to the basement for bulky leaves. Everything stays right in the table.
How Does a Butterfly Leaf Table Work?
For a visual demonstration, take a look at the video below to see how easy it is to use a butterfly leaf table.
They have a section in the center that can be self stored when not in use at large gatherings. The tables open easily with a single self equalizing, ball bearing extension leaf. The self storing butterfly leaf mechanism allows for single handed operation to easily expand or close the table in a matter of seconds!
Where can I find butterfly leaf extension tables?
We have several beautiful, solid wood tables with self storing leaves. Take a look at a selection of our favorites below:
Catalina Cherry Trestle Extension Table
Our modern Copeland Catalina Cherry Trestle Extension Table is custom handmade to order with solid American Cherry wood. Features elegant lines in its solid wood table top and rounded, angled taper legs. Authentic Mid-Century styling in the table top with sides curved slightly outward along the table width to create a boat shape. The table opens easily with a single 24" wide self equalizing, ball bearing extension leaf. The self storing butterfly leaf mechanism allows for single handed operation to easily expand or close the table in a matter of seconds.
Catalina Walnut Trestle Extension Table
Our modern Catalina Large Walnut Dining Extension Table is custom handmade to order with solid American Black Walnut wood. Features elegant lines in its solid wood table top and rounded, angled taper legs. Authentic Mid-Century styling in the table top with sides curved slightly outward along the table width to create a boat shape. The table opens easily with a single 24" wide self equalizing, ball bearing extension leaf. The self storing butterfly leaf mechanism allows for single handed operation to easily expand or close the table in a matter of seconds.
Catalina Cherry Round Extension Table
Our modern Catalina Cherry Round Extension Table is custom handmade to order with solid American Cherry wood. Features elegant lines in its round table top and rounded, angled taper legs. The table opens easily with a single 24" wide self equalizing, ball bearing extension leaf. The self storing butterfly leaf mechanism allows for single handed operation to easily expand or close the table in a matter of seconds.
Audrey Cherry Extension Dining Table
Our modern Audrey Cherry Dining Extension Table is handmade to order with solid Cherry wood. Features elegant lines in its rectangular table top and trestle base with dynamic double 'X' legs. The table opens easily with a single 24" wide self equalizing, ball bearing extension leaf. The self storing butterfly leaf mechanism allows for single handed operation to easily expand or close the table in a matter of seconds.
Sarah Shaker Tapered Leg Extension Table
The centerpiece of Copeland's new Sarah Shaker dining room collection, this real cherry tapered leg extension table features a 24"W self-storing leaf. The extension mechanism incorporates self equalizing, ball bearing extension glides and a single 24" self storing butterfly leaf for single handed operation to easily expand or close the table in a matter of seconds.
A self-storing extension table is the perfect blend of form and function—and when it’s made from real, sustainably harvested wood by expert hands, it’s a piece you’ll treasure for decades. Ready to find the right fit for your home? Explore our collection of solid wood dining tables today and experience the beauty of furniture made with purpose.
